Joel Hoiland - 3rd District Alderman

City Calendar (Meetings, Agendas and Minutes)

Next City Council Meeting

Monday, July 14 & 28, 6:00 p.m. City Hall, Lake Geneva

Committee Assignments

Chairman, Personnel Committee
Public Works Committee
Plan Commission
Police & Fire Commission
Board of Review
Lake Geneva Economic Development Corporation

Contact Joel

See below for more information

Why I ran for a seat on the City Council

Serving on the Lake Geneva Plan Commission since March 2021 has given me a deep understanding of our community—its people, businesses, and the workings of city government. I’ve been struck by how well my past experiences have prepared me to contribute meaningfully, both on the Plan Commission and now on the City Council.

My professional background allows me to bring a distinct and valuable perspective. Over the course of my career, I’ve managed budgets of up to $27 million and led teams of hundreds. I’ve also been honored to serve in elected leadership roles at both the state and national levels.

Most importantly, I have the energy, time, and expertise to focus on key issues and deliver meaningful results.

It is a true privilege and honor to serve the residents of Lake Geneva.

My wife and I own a home adjacent to Hillmoor Park and are deeply invested in the long-term success of the Lake Geneva community. We have three adult children and four grandchildren—with two more on the way. Over the years, we’ve lived in Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois, and now proudly call Lake Geneva home. I was raised in a small farming town in western Minnesota and have since experienced life in both small towns and large cities.
For more than 30 years, I served as President and CEO of state, national, and international trade associations representing a wide range of industries—including grocery, supply chain logistics, window and door manufacturing, and electric, gas, and water utilities, among others.
Throughout my career, I served as a chief industry lobbyist, led governmental affairs initiatives, testified before legislative and regulatory bodies, and contributed to numerous boards, task forces, and public policy think tanks.
Building on my service with the Plan Commission, I’ve consistently drawn on my business experience to deliver results promptly and effectively.

Lake Geneva faces a range of important issues—including the future of Hillmoor, short-term rentals, parking, Main Street construction, and public safety, among others. Addressing these challenges requires capable, experienced, collaborative, and intuitive leadership. At the end of the day, delivering solutions and results is what matters.
The City of Lake Geneva has a rich history that deserves to be honored and preserved. At the same time, it continues to evolve as a vibrant place to live and work—and remains one of the Midwest’s premier vacation and tourist destinations. With my background in business and government, I’m well-equipped to help shape the city’s path forward.
City Councils function best when the interests of residents, businesses, and visitors come first, above personal agendas. As a member of the City Council, my top priority is to collaborate with others to deliver the best solutions for the entire community.
Keeping the community informed about pending issues, actions, and advisories is a top priority. There are many effective ways to share important information. I currently provide bi-monthly updates from the City Council and am actively working with the City to develop a broader community communication process.